Most Reliable Used SUVs
All sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are versatile automobiles that sit higher than most passenger cars, and they are a better option for towing and carrying cargo. Larger models can even carry up to seven or eight people (counting the driver).
GMC, a General Motors brand, has many worthwhile SUV models to choose from, so we’ve selected a few of the most reliable used GMCs that we think are worth your attention.
GMC Acadia
GMC first put out its Acadia crossover SUV in 2007, and this model quickly gained popularity in a few short years. Over its more than 10 years on the market, the Acadia has earned several NHTSA 5-star safety ratings, and its design offers spacious seating and plenty of cargo space. The standard model uses front-wheel drive, but you can also find all-wheel drive models for more off-road capabilities.
The Acadia line is still going strong. While the newest models on the market make for a stellar driving experience, used Acadia SUVs are still reliable, stylish fun to drive and affordable for car buyers in the greater Phoenix, AZ area.
Best Used GMC Acadia Years
If the Acadia is your top pick for your next vehicle, then you’ll want to consider the year of the model. GMC has updated the Acadia several times over the years, adjusting the interior and exterior designs, as well as the size and weight of the vehicle.
You can also expect to find updates to the Acadia’s features and storage capabilities across models. Depending on how you want to use your vehicle, some years will better fit your needs than others. Continue reading to see what we mean.
2017 Used GMC Acadia
The 2017 GMC Acadia received several updates in terms of size and weight, making it a midsize SUV. This design swap is a marked improvement when it comes to drivability and efficiency. The once blocky exterior also has some softer edges, giving it a more modern appearance. You can also see reworking in the cabin with updated materials, design and infotainment system. With a powerful 3.6L V6 engine and 9-speed automatic transmission it’s a powerful midsize SUV.
While the 2018 GMC Acadia has some updates in terms of colors and seat availability, there’s not much change from the 2017. There is an All Terrain model with a new all-wheel-drive system, plus some extra features like a heated steering wheel.
2011 to 2014 GMC Acadia Models: Among the Most Sought-After Used SUVs
When it comes to safety, the 2011 through 2014 models all have 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA.
If you want more reassurance than that, the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave the 2011 to 2013 models a “Top Safety Pick” designation. These models are still know for reliability ratings and for their safety designations today, making them some of the most popular choices around.
Worth noting is that 2013 was the year when the Acadia received a facelift, with higher-quality interior materials and updated exterior styling elements. There’s also a revised rear liftgate design for better functionality.
For the most luxurious experience, the Acadia Denali line has the highest trim level. You can find these models from 2011 onward.
If you find a good deal for a used GMC SUV, you should seriously explore the purchase, especially for models that fit into the best safety ratings time frame.
Used GMC Yukon and Yukon XL
Another top GMC vehicle is the full size Yukon and stretched Yukon XL. These SUVs have extensive seating and high maximum tow ratings, making them very capable vehicles.
While the Yukon isn’t the nimblest SUV around, it’s still much more maneuverable than you might expect for a large SUV. For Phoenix residents who love to get away from the city and escape into the wilderness (with plenty of companions and gear along for the ride), the Yukon is the SUV for the job.
New Yukons are rather steeply priced, which is why a used vehicle is the way to go. You can count on newer models to have all the modern amenities you could ever want (and then some), but an older Yukon will serve you just as well.
Best GMC Yukon Years
GMC doesn’t provide too many distinctions between models close to each other. About every five years, the Yukon undergoes an upgrade that sets the standard for the next vehicles to come. Thanks to that, you don’t need to aim too carefully at a certain year when looking for a used SUV.
However, you can focus on which “generation” the car comes from instead. With the current generation starting in 2015, anything before that makes for a solid used option.
Third-Generation GMC Yukon (2007 to 2014)
Third-generation GMC Yukons are some of the best choices. In fact, 2007 was the year that the Yukon distinguished itself from the similar Chevy Tahoe. In this generation, you will find brand-specific equipment and more distinct styling, which helped these SUVs develop into the line they are today.
Yukons from 2009 and newer may be more appealing to drivers. Why? Third-row seats, Bluetooth phone connectivity and rearview camera systems started to become standard in these vehicles. There were also updates to the airbag system starting in 2009, enhancing the safety experience.
Crossover SUVs may have been more popular during this generation. Yet, the Yukon still had plenty to offer, and now makes for one of the top used SUVs on the market.
Second-Generation GMC Yukon (2000 to 2006)
Looking back further, second-generation Yukons provide a pleasant handling and ride experience. You’ll also find that front-seat side airbags are standard throughout this generation. But, if you want enhanced stability control, you’ll need to look for a 2003 model or newer.
If you’re looking for a Yukon Denali, though, note that the second generation for that line starts at 2001; the 2000 model is closer to its first-generation brethren.
Across all second-generation Yukons, keep a close eye on models that suffer from inconsistent build quality.
If you decide that you’d rather have a first-generation Yukon, then the 1996 through 1999 models are your best picks. Their updated V8 engines provide better torque and horsepower.
Best Used GMC SUVs for Sale in Metro Phoenix
When you’re ready to make your Phoenix, Arizona used SUV purchase, Red Mountain Funding in Mesa can help with the most reliable used SUVs.
No matter what, we can extend to you several low down payment and bad credit financing options, when you purchase from any Phoenix-area car lot.
Apply For Financing Online Today
I’m a kid at heart disguised as an auto researcher and business owner. I’ve always enjoyed providing insight in the form of reviews (anime, video games, autos, etc.) When I’m not researching, I’m spending time with my family, driving my Dodge Challenger, riding my motorcycle, and finding new entrepreneurial pursuits.
Another great used Honda SUV for families is the Honda Element. With a distinctive “boxy” look, the Element has an incredibly spacious interior, yet is considered compact in length –being 7 inches than a Honda Civic. This layout makes the Honda Element extremely easy to park and fit into tight spaces – a feature many urban Phoenix residents may appreciate.
The GMC Acadia has been a reliable full size SUV model since it first came on the market in 2007. Both the 2011 and 2014 GMC Acadias earned 5-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) designated 2011, 2012, and 2013 models as “Top Safety Picks.” The Acadia comfortably and safely seats eight people, while still having room for cargo. It has a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that gives the vehicle 288 horsepower. It is available with front or full-wheel drive and has a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Acura MDX has three rows of seats and can comfortably carry seven passengers. The second generation MDX models, between 2007 and 2013, have a 3.7-liter V-6 engine that provides 300 horsepower. They have four-wheel drive through Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system and torque-vectoring technology, making them easier to navigate on curvy roads. Second generation models can tow up to 5,000 pounds and have large amounts of space to easily fit cargo, even while the vehicle is carrying the maximum seven passengers.
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